Golf ball retrieval and positioning system

ABSTRACT

Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to an improved golf ball retrieval and positioning device. Unlike other anti-bend golf products, the golf ball retrieval and positioning system of various embodiments of the present invention includes a golf ball positioning device and a golf ball retrieval device that also functions as a base for supporting a golf ball in a teeing position. The components of the present invention are modular and interface with an existing golf club through a hole that exists in the end of a golf club grip. As a result, the present invention provides an improved system for teeing and retrieving golf balls without having to bend over. The system is inexpensive, easily portable, and non-damaging to the golf club.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of copending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/384,661, which was entitled “GOLF BALL RETRIEVAL ANDPOSITIONING SYSTEM” and filed Mar. 20, 2006.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates generally to golf accessories, and in particular,to accessories that allow a golfer to tee and position golf balls andother objects without bending over.

2. Description of the Related Art

The game of golf is one of the most popular forms of recreation in theUnited States and throughout the world. Golf is marketed as a game thatcan be enjoyed throughout one's lifetime. However, in practice, manygolfers are forced to give up golf prematurely due to the strain andpressure that the game places on one's back and joints. Much of thisstrain and pressure results from the fact that golfer's are constantlyrequired to bend over and manipulate items adjacent their feet during around. For example, golfers must bend over to tee a golf ball beforebeginning a hole, mark or clean a golf ball on the green, and retrieve agolf ball from a cup after completion of the hole. In a typical 18-holegolf round a golfer may be forced to bend completely over a total ofseventy times.

A few products have emerged in recent years that purport to alleviatethe above back pressure and strain by allowing a golfer to tee or pickup a golf ball from a relatively upright position (i.e., without bendingover). Such products, however, have proven less than desirable as theyare generally expensive, cumbersome to carry and use, and may result inlimiting the effectiveness of traditional golf clubs.

For example, one prior art device requires that a golfer carry, inaddition to his/her fourteen golf clubs, a telescoping golf retrievaland placement device that is akin to a telescoping golf ball retrievercommonly used to retrieve a golf ball from water or other hazards. Suchdevices typically include an elongate or telescoping pole and a pick-uptool disposed on one end thereof. In various applications, the pick-uptool is designed to hold the golf ball securely such that it may beretrieved without being dislodged as the pick-up tool bumps seaweed,mud, brush, or other objects that are common to golf hazards.Unfortunately, however, such golf ball retrieval and placement devicesare expensive, cumbersome to carry and operate, and must be carried inan already tightly packed golf bag. Other prior art golf ball retrievaland placement devices incorporate pick-up tools that are attached to thehozzle of a golf club or that clip over the golf club grip. Such devicesalso have drawbacks in that they are generally cumbersome to use andlimit the effectiveness of the golf clubs themselves. For example,pick-up tools that are clipped over the grip of a golf club may causeundue wear and tear to the grip.

As a result, there is a need for an improved system and method forsimply positioning and retrieving golf balls without requiring a golferto significantly bend at the waist. The improved system and methodshould be inexpensive, compact, easy to use, and should operate as anon-damaging accessory to a conventional golf club.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The above needs are addressed and other advantages are provided by animproved golf ball retrieval and positioning system. Unlike otheranti-bend golf products, the golf ball retrieval and positioning systemof various embodiments of the present invention includes a golf ballpositioning device and a golf ball retrieval device that also functionsas a base for supporting a golf ball in a teeing position. Thecomponents of the present invention are modular and interface with anexisting golf club through a hole that exists in the end of a golf clubgrip. As a result, the present invention provides an improved system forteeing and retrieving golf balls without having to bend over. The systemis inexpensive, easily portable, and non-damaging to the golf club.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will nowbe made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn toscale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts an improved golf ball retrieval and positioning system inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a golf ball positioning device inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a golf ball positioning device insertedinto the grip of a golf club in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a golf ball positioning device cradlinga golf ball in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a golf ball retrieval and teeing device inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a front view of a golf ball retrieval and teeing devicesupporting a golf ball in a teeing position in accordance with oneembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a golf ball retrieval and teeing deviceinserted into the grip of a golf club and receiving a golf ball inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a golf ball retrieval and teeing devicein accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a front view of a golf ball retrieval and teeing devicesupporting a golf ball in a teeing position in accordance with anotherembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a golf ball positioning device beingused to position a golf ball onto a golf ball retrieval and teeingdevice in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a golf ball positioning device insertedinto the grip of a golf club and being used to retrieve a golf ballretrieval and teeing device in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a golf ball positioning device insertedinto the grip of a golf club and being used to position a ball marker inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a ball mark repair device in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a ball mark repair device inserted intothe grip of a golf club and being used to repair a ball mark inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not allembodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, this invention may beembodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limitedto the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments areprovided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legalrequirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

FIG. 1 shows a golf ball retrieval and positioning system in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention. The depicted golf ballretrieval and positioning system 100 comprises a retrieval and teeingdevice 102 and a positioning device 104. As will be described in moredetail below, the depicted golf ball retrieval and positioning system100 may be simply used by a golfer, without significantly bending overat the waist, to tee-up a golf ball prior to driving, manipulate a golfball, golf marker, or other object on or proximate to the ground (e.g.,golf green, tee box, fairway, etc.), fix or repair a divot or ball mark(i.e., indentation made by the ball upon landing on the green orfairway) and retrieve a golf ball from a cup upon completion of a golfhole. Finally, the depicted golf ball retrieval and positioning system100 allows a golfer to accurately, and cheaply mark a putting referenceline to a golf ball as will be discussed in greater detail below.

Various components of the depicted golf ball retrieval and positioningsystem 100 are structured to removably attach to a conventional golfclub grip thereby allowing a golfer to use the length of the golf clubto pick-up or otherwise manipulate golf balls and other objects on theground without substantially bending over. Multiple additionalgolf-related uses for various embodiments of the present invention willbe apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of thedisclosure provided below.

FIG. 2 depicts a positioning device 104 structured in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention. The depicted positioning device104 comprises an interface portion 106, a transition portion 105, acradle portion 108 and a hook portion 110 as shown. The interfaceportion 106 is disposed at a first end 107 of the positioning device 104and is adapted for attachment to a conventional golf grip as describedin reference to FIG. 3 below. The transition portion 105 provides astructural transition between the interface portion 106 and the cradleportion 108 and defines the position of the cradle portion 108 relativeto the golf club as will be described in greater detail below.

The cradle portion 108 is structured to receive and manipulate a golfball. In the depicted embodiment, the cradle portion 108 defines acurved member that extends from the transition portion 105 to the hookportion 110. In one embodiment, the cradle portion 108 defines a radiusR that is sized to partially enclose a golf ball below its widest part.In various embodiments the cradle portion radius R is preferably lessthan 0.84 inches, more preferably between 0.82 and 0.55 inches, andstill more preferably between 0.78 and 0.60 inches. In anotherembodiment, the cradle portion 108 partially encloses a golf ball byencircling less than 90 percent of its circumference, more preferablybetween 55 and 90 percent of its circumference, and still morepreferably between 60 and 75 percent of the golf ball's circumference.

The cradle portion 108 terminates at the hook portion 110 that isstructured proximate a second end 109 of the positioning device 104 asshown. The hook portion 110 is a curved member extending outwardly fromthe cradle portion 108 in a direction opposite to that of the cradleportion curve as shown. The hook portion 110 is structured to pick upand otherwise manipulate a variety of objects including but not limitedto the retrieval and teeing device 103 (as shown in FIG. 11) and awasher-shaped golf ball marker (depicted as item 195 of FIG. 12). In oneembodiment, the hook portion 110 defines a hook radius HR that is sizedto at least partially enclose a golf tee head below its widest part. Invarious embodiments the hook radius HR is preferably less than 0.2188inches, more preferably between 0.0938 and 0.2188 inches, and still morepreferably between 0.15 and 0.2188 inches. In another embodiment, thehook portion 110 defines a gap G that is sized to laterally receive agolf tee or other object. In various embodiments, the gap G is greaterthan 0.1875 inches, more preferably between 0.19 and 0.30 inches, andstill more preferably between 0.20 and 0.25 inches.

Positioning devices 104 according to various embodiments of the presentinvention may be comprised of a variety of materials including metals,polymers, rubbers, composite materials, natural materials such as wood,or any other material that is capable of being formed or molded into adesired shape and that is capable of holding its shape under the weightof a golf ball or other positionable object. The depicted positioningdevice 104 is comprised of a formed metal wire. Positioning devices 104according to various embodiments may be produced from a single materialas shown or alternatively, from multiple materials. For example, in oneembodiment, the interface portion 106 may be formed from a firstmaterial, the transition portion 105 may be formed from a secondmaterial, and the cradle portion 108 and hook portion 110 may be formedfrom a third material.

FIG. 3 depicts a positioning device 104 attached to a golf club 112 inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Moreparticularly, the interface portion 106 of the depicted positioningdevice 104 has been inserted into an air relief hole 114 (also referredto herein as a golf grip hole) of a conventional golf club grip 113. Aswill be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, air relief holes114 are commonly defined in conventional golf grips to assist gripinstallation by allowing trapped air to escape from the grip 113 as itis pushed onto a golf club shaft (not shown). Various embodiments of thepresent invention take advantage of this standard golf grip feature byproviding a positioning device 104 having an interface portion 106 thatis structured to be removably received by the grip hole 114. Wheninserted into the golf grip hole 114, the positioning device 104 issufficiently supported such that it may used to carry or manipulate agolf ball 111 or other objects. In the depicted embodiment, theinterface portion 106 is sized such that it produces an interference fitwithin the grip hole 114. For example, in one embodiment, at least partof the interface portion may define a diameter between 0.09 and 0.1875inches, preferably approximately 0.125 inches.

In another embodiment, the interface portion 106 may be tapered (notshown) to ensure an adequate interference fit. In yet anotherembodiment, the interface portion 106 may define one or more ribs (notshown) that may be pressed through the resilient golf grip hole 114 tomaintain the interface member 106 within the golf grip hole 114 untilremoved by a user. In still other embodiments, the interface portion 106may be removably received by the grip hole 114 in various additionalways, for example, the interface portion 106 may define one or morescrew type threads (not shown) such that the positioning device 104 maybe removably screwed into the grip hole 114.

The positioning device 104 depicted in FIG. 3A defines a firsttransitional angle θ between the interface portion 106 and thetransition portion 105. A second transition angle α is defined betweenthe transition portion 105 and the cradle portion 108 as shown. Anaddress angle β is defined between the longitudinal axis 112′ of thegolf club 112 and a vertical plane VP that is illustrated in FIG. 3 togenerally represent the plane of a user's stance. In one embodiment, theaddress angle β, the first transition angle θ, and the second transitionangle α may be added to define a pick angle PA between 70 and 120degrees, preferably between 80 and 110 degrees, and more preferablybetween 85 and 105 degrees. In other embodiments, the transition portion105 of the positioning member 104 may be omitted such that the interfacemember 106 extends directly into the cradle portion 108 (not shown)thereby defining a single transition angle (not shown). In suchembodiments, the address angle β and the single transition angle (notshown) may be added to define a pick angle PA between 70 and 120degrees, preferably between 80 and 110 degrees, and more preferablybetween 85 and 105 degrees. In still other embodiments, hinges, flexiblewires, or other bendable materials may be used for one or more parts ofthe positioning device 106 such that at least one of the address angleβ, the first transition angle θ, the second transition angle α, and thepick angle PA may be adjusted to hold a desired angle that is selectedfrom among a range of angles to meet a specific application.

FIG. 4 depicts a positioning device 104 supporting a golf ball 111cradled atop its cradle portion 108 in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention. As will be apparent to one of ordinary skill inthe art, a golf ball defines a maximum width or diameter generallyadjacent to its equator. In the depicted embodiment, the cradle portion108 of the positioning device is sized to partially enclose the golfball 111 immediately below its equator as shown. In this regard,positioning devices 104 structured in accordance with variousembodiments of the present invention may be used in combination with astandard golf club to pick up and manipulate or position a golf ball orother object without bending over. It should be noted that in variousembodiments, the term “positioning” refers to picking up a golf ball orother object from the ground, moving a golf ball or other object fromone location to another, placing a golf ball or other object in adesired location (e.g., on a tee or teeing support), removing a golfball or other object from a desired location (e.g., from a golf cup),and various other movements.

FIG. 5 depicts a retrieval and teeing device 102 structured inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The depictedretrieval and teeing device 102 is structured to have a dual use as agolf ball retrieving aid and a golf ball teeing aid. Said differently,retrieval and teeing devices structured in accordance with variousembodiments of the present invention may be used in a retrieval modeand/or a teeing mode. The retrieval and teeing device 102 includes aretrieval portion 116, an interface portion 120, and a teeing portion118 as shown. In various embodiments, the teeing portion 118 isremovably secured to the interface portion 120 and is structured tosupport a golf ball in a teed position. In this regard, the teeingportion 118 defines a cavity 121 at a first end for receiving theinterface portion 120 and a concave teeing surface 119 proximate asecond end that is similar to a teeing surface commonly associated witha conventional golf tee. It should be noted, however, that in variousother embodiments, the teeing surface 119 may have any configurationthat is sufficient to support a golf ball 111 in a teed position,including, but not limited to, a vertically extending cylinder or ring,multiple vertically extending fingers or brushes, or other similar teeconfigurations that may be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.

In the depicted embodiment, the retrieval portion 116 of the retrievaland teeing device 102 is structured generally as an inverted cup orshell for removably receiving at least a portion of a golf ball. In thisregard, the depicted retrieval portion 116 defines a diameter D that issized to partially enclose a golf ball above its widest part. In variousembodiments the retrieval portion diameter D is preferably less than1.680 inches, more preferably between 1.64 and 1.10 inches, and stillmore preferably between 1.56 and 1.20 inches. The depicted retrievalportion 116 is comprised of a polymer shell that is structured to fitsnugly over at least a portion of a golf ball. The shell defines anouter surface 123, an inner surface 125, a cavity 124, and a peripheraledge 127. In various embodiments, the inner surface 125 and/orperipheral edge 127 of the retrieval portion 116 form an interferencefit around the perimeter of a golf ball when the ball is pressed snuglyinto the cavity 124 as discussed in greater detail below.

As shown in FIG. 6, the retrieval and teeing device 102 may be used as agolf ball teeing aid. During use, the depicted retrieval portion 116 isplaced on the ground 128 such that its peripheral edge 127 restsproximate the ground surface 129 as shown. As noted above, the teeingportion 118 is structured to receive the interface portion 120, whichextends from the outer surface 123 of the retrieval portion 116. Theinterface portion 120 is sized to produce a sliding interference fitwithin the cavity (item 121 of FIG. 5) defined proximate the first endof the teeing portion 118. In this regard, the teeing portion 118 isremovably secured to the retrieval portion 116. When so configured, theretrieval and teeing device 102 may be used by a golfer to support agolf ball 111 in a teed position as shown.

In the depicted embodiment, the teeing portion 118, the interfaceportion 120, and the retrieval portion 116 of the retrieval and teeingdevice 102 are constructed of a molded polymer such as polypropylene;however, in various embodiments of the present invention the teeingportion 118, the interface portion 120, and the retrieval portion 116may be constructed of any durable material having the flexibility,strength and rigidity to support a golf ball such as plastic materials,rubber materials, composites, and combinations thereof.

As noted above and illustrated in FIG. 7, the retrieval and teeingdevice 102 may also be used as a golf ball retrieving aid simply byremoving the teeing portion (not shown). In the depicted embodiment, theinterface portion 120 of the retrieval and teeing device 102 isstructured to be received by an air relief hole 114 similar to thatdescribed with regard to FIGS. 3-4 above. When inserted into the golfgrip hole 114, the retrieval portion 116 is sufficiently supported suchthat it may used to carry or manipulate a golf ball 111 or otherobjects. In the depicted embodiment, the interface portion 120 is sizedsuch that it produces an interference fit within the air relief hole114. In another embodiment, the interface portion 120 may be tapered(not shown) to ensure an adequate interference fit. In yet anotherembodiment, the interface portion 120 may define one or more ribs (notshown) that may be pressed through the resilient golf grip hole 114 tomaintain the interface member 120 within the golf grip hole 114 untilremoved by a user. In such embodiments, corresponding ribs or holes maybe defined in a possibly resilient teeing portion (item 118 of FIG. 6)for securely receiving the ribs of the interface member 120 as will beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure.In still other embodiments, the interface portion 120 may be removablyreceived by the air relief hole 114 in various additional ways, forexample, the interface portion may define one or more screw type threads(not shown) such that the retrieval portion 102 may be removably screwedinto the grip hole 114.

In addition to simply picking up and otherwise manipulating a golf ballor other object, the retrieval and teeing device 102 of variousembodiments of the present invention is also structured as a guide forusers who wish to place a putting reference mark proximate the equatorof the golf ball. For example, in one embodiment, the retrieval portion116 of the retrieval and teeing device 102 may be pressed onto a golfball 111 such that the peripheral edge 127 of the retrieval portion 116is positioned generally proximate the equator of the golf ball 111. Atleast a portion of the peripheral edge 127 of the retrieval portion 116is structured to define a continuous straight-edge such that a user mayrun a felt-tip marker or other appropriate marking device along thecontinuous strait-edge and thereby create a putting reference mark (notshown) proximate the equator of the golf ball 111.

Although previous embodiments of the present invention depict aretrieval and teeing device that is coupled to a golf club grip by themale/female interference fit between an elongate interference portionand a golf grip hole, retrieval and teeing devices structured inaccordance with other embodiments may be coupled to a golf club grip ina variety of additional ways. For example, FIG. 8 illustrates aretrieval and teeing device 202 embodiment wherein an alternate golfgrip coupling structure is used. The depicted retrieval and teeingdevice 202 includes a retrieval portion 216 that is structured similarlyto the retrieval portion 116 described with respect to FIGS. 5-7;however, in the depicted embodiment, the interface portion/grip holeinterface has been replaced with a durable, weather-resistant,hook-and-loop fabric fastener as is commonly known in the art.

For example, one might use a hook-and-loop fabric fastener of the typeproduced under the brand name VELCRO® by Velcro Industries B.V. Thedepicted hook-and-loop fabric fastener includes a first portion 243comprised of a hook material and a second portion 245 comprised of aloop material. In the depicted embodiment, the first portion is attachedto the retrieval portion 216 of the retrieval and teeing device 202 andthe second portion is attached to the end 117 of a golf grip 113 asshown. In alternate embodiments, however, the relative attachmentpositions of the first and second portions 243, 245 of the hook-and-loopfastener may be reversed as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill inthe art. In the depicted embodiment, the first and second portions 243,245 of the hook-and-loop fastener are attached to their respectiveattachment surfaces by a pressure sensitive or contact adhesive.However, it should be noted that in other embodiments these componentsmay be adhered in other ways such as by heat activated adhesives,staples, screws, nails, pop-rivets, or other fasteners.

FIG. 9 illustrates the teeing functionality of the retrieval and teeingdevice 202 shown in FIG. 8. In the depicted embodiment, the retrievaland teeing device 202 defines a hole 235 located generally adjacent theapex or top of the retrieval portion 216 as shown. In variousembodiments, the hole 235 defines a diameter D that is approximately0.1875 inches, more preferably between 0.125 and 0.25 inches, and stillmore preferably between 0.175 and 0.195 inches. In this regard, the hole235 is structured to removably receive a shaft 230 of a conventionalgolf tee 232 as shown. In one embodiment, the hole 235 defined in theretrieval portion 216 is sized to produce a sliding interference fitwith the shaft 230 of the golf tee 232. In this regard, the tee 232 maybe held securely within the retrieval portion 216 for supporting a golfball in a teed position (not shown). In various embodiments, theperimeter of the hole 235 may define one or more resilient slits,detents, or other features (not shown) for encouraging hole-sizeflexibility and thereby accommodating a secure interference fit atvarying tee heights for tees having tapered shafts. In otherembodiments, specialty tees (not shown) may be used having one or moreribs or other locating features defined on or about the tee shaft forsecuring the tee at a selected tee height within the hole 235.

FIGS. 10, 11, and 12 depict usage of a golf ball retrieval andpositioning system 100 structured in accordance with various embodimentsof the present invention. For example, FIG. 10 depicts a positioningdevice 104 being used to position a golf ball 111 onto a retrieval andteeing device 102 in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention. The depicted positioning device 104 and retrieval and teeingdevice 102 are structured to be compact and therefore fit efficiently ina golfer's pocket or golf bag. Upon reaching a tee box, a golfer simplydrops the retrieval and teeing device 102 proximate a desired teeinglocation and inserts the interface portion 106 of the positioning device104 into the grip hole 114 of the golfer's driver. If the retrieval andteeing device 102 does not land on the ground in a tee-up position, withits retrieval portion 116 positioned squarely on the ground surface 129and the teeing portion 118 in an upright position, the hook portion 110of the positioning device 104 may be conveniently used to manipulate theteeing portion 118 of the retrieval and teeing device 104 into a tee-upposition. As noted above, a golfer manipulates golf balls and otherobjects adjacent the ground without substantially bending over bygrasping the head of the golf club and pointing the golf club grip and,thus, the positioning device 104, toward the object to that is to bemanipulated. In the depicted embodiment, a golfer places a golf ball 111into the cradle portion 108 of the positioning device 104, grasps thehead of the golfer's driver, and lowers the positioning device 104 andgolf ball 111 toward the teeing surface 119 of the retrieval and teeingdevice 102 generally along arrow A as shown. In this regard, the golfball 111 is positioned onto the teeing portion 118 of the retrieval andteeing device 102 and made ready for driving as will be apparent to oneof ordinary skill in the art.

Once a golfer has teed off, the golfer may pick up the retrieval andteeing device 102 using the hook portion 110 of the positioning device104 as shown in FIG. 11. In particular, as noted above, the hook portion110 of the positioning device 104 is sized to receive head of the teeingportion 118 of the retrieval and teeing device 102 thereby allowing agolfer to pluck the retrieval and teeing device 102 from the ground asshown.

Retrieval and teeing devices 202 structured in accordance with theembodiment depicted in FIGS. 8 and 9 may be used in a similar fashion tothe retrieval and teeing device 102 depicted in FIG. 10. However, insuch embodiments, a standard or specialty golf tee 232 is seated intothe hole 235 defined in the retrieval portion 216 before the retrievaland teeing device 202 is dropped proximate a desired teeing location.The retrieval and teeing device 202 may then be manipulated into anupright position and a golf ball placed upon the golf tee 232 using thepositioning device 104 as generally described above.

FIG. 12 depicts a positioning device 104 being used to mark the positionof a golf ball 111 using a washer-shaped ball marker 195 in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention. Upon reaching a golfgreen, a golfer simply drops the washer-shaped ball marker 195 proximatethe ball location and inserts the interface portion 106 of thepositioning device 104 into the grip hole 114 of the golfer's club(e.g., wedge, putter, etc.). The golfer then grasps the head of the golfclub and pushes the golf ball marker 195 into place behind the golf ball111 using the hook portion 110 or outer edge of the cradle portion 108of the positioning device 104. When it is time for the golfer to putt,the golfer may retrieve the golf ball marker 195 by inserting the hookportion 110 of the positioning device 104 into an aperture 196 definedin the golf ball marker 195 and withdrawing the marker 195 upwardlyalong arrow B as shown.

In another embodiment of the present invention a portion (e.g., the hookportion) of the positioning device 108 may be magnetized for use with ametallic golf ball marker 195. In such embodiments, the ball marker 195could be manipulated into place on the ground using a non-magnetizedportion (e.g., the cradle portion) of the positioning device 108 andretrieved using the magnetized portion of the positioning device 108.

FIGS. 13 and 14 depict a ball mark repair device 350 structured inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Thedepicted ball mark repair device 350 may be alternatively referred to asa turf repair tool. For purposes of the present invention and appendingclaims the term “ball mark” refers to a divot, indentation, or otherturf imperfection that occurs during golf as a result of impacts withthe ground. Although most effective for repairing ball marks it will beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that ball mark repairdevices structured in accordance with various embodiments of the presentinvention may also be used to repair divots created when a golfer swingsa golf club or other turf imperfections.

The depicted ball mark repair device 350 includes a lever portion 352, abase portion 354, and a finger portion 358. The finger portion 358includes at least one finger 357 that is adapted to be inserted into aputting green or any other surface having a ball mark 360 that a golferwishes to repair. The depicted embodiment includes three fingers 357.The base portion 354 includes an interface portion 356 that isconfigured to be received by the air relief hole 114 of a conventionalgolf club grip 113, as similarly described above with respect to otherembodiments of the present invention.

In the depicted embodiment, the interface portion/air relief holeinterface also includes a durable, weather-resistant, hook-and-loopfabric fastener as generally described above. The depicted hook-and-loopfabric fastener includes a first portion 345 comprised of a hookmaterial and a second portion 355 comprised of a loop material. In thedepicted embodiment, the first portion 345 is attached to the baseportion 354 of the ball mark repair device, and the second portion 355is attached to the end 117 of a golf grip 113 as shown in FIG. 14 and assimilarly described with respect to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 8.

FIG. 14 shows usage of the ball mark repair device 350 in accordancewith various embodiments of the present invention. Upon reaching aputting green (or any other turf surface) having a ball mark 360 that agolfer desires to repair, the golfer simply inserts the interfaceportion 356 of the ball mark repair device 350 into the air relief hole114 of the golfer's putter (or other golf club). Upon insertion of theinterface portion 356 into the air relief hole 114, the first portion345 of the hook and loop material engages the second portion 355 of thehook and loop portion material in order to secure the ball mark repairdevice 350 to the end 117 of the grip 113, and to keep the ball markrepair device 350 from rotating about the interface portion 356. Also,in this position, the lever portion 352 rests against a portion of thegrip 113 adjacent the end 117 of the club as shown. The lever portion352 is intended to provide leverage during usage of the ball mark repairdevice 350. Thus, in various embodiments, the lever portion 352 may takea variety of differing structures including structures that enhance theleverage provided by the lever portion 352. For example, in oneembodiment the lever portion may define a curved region adapted tocomplement the curvature of the grip 113. In another embodiment, thelever portion may define a rib or other similar feature located at thetop of the lever for creating an upwardly located contact point andthereby enhancing the leverage available when using the ball mark repairdevice.

A golfer manipulates the ball mark repair device 350 by grasping thehead of a golf club and pointing the golf club grip 113 and, thus, theball mark repair device 350, toward a ball mark 360 that is to berepaired. The golfer then inserts the fingers 357 of the ball markrepair device 350 into the ground 128 near the ball mark 360. The golfclub is then moved against the lever portion along the directiongenerally defined by arrow C. When the golf club is moved in thedirection of arrow C, the lever portion 354 of the ball mark repairdevice 350 provides leverage against the grip 113 such that the fingers357 of the ball mark repair device 350 move in the direction generallydefined by arrow D. This process may be repeated around the perimeter ofthe ball mark 360 as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in theart. In this regard, the ball mark repair device 350 may be used by agolfer to repair a ball mark 360 without bending over.

In other embodiments, the ball mark repair device may be structured asset forth above; however, the interface portion 356 may be omitted. Insuch embodiments, the first portion of the hook and loop material wouldcontinue to engage the second portion of the hook and loop materialthereby securing the ball mark repair device to the end of the golf clubgrip. The lever portion would therefor rest against a portion of thegrip adjacent the end of the club as described above. In this regard,the lever portion would provide leverage for manipulating the toolduring usage of the ball mark repair device. Should additional stabilitybe required a more robust hook and loop material may be used.Alternatively, in other embodiments, a first end of a double-sided hookand loop strap may be affixed to the back surface of the lever portion(i.e., the surface opposite that which contacts the golf club grip). Asecond end of the double-sided hook and loop strap could then be wrappedaround the golf club grip such that the double-sided hook and loop strapoverlaps and thereby adheres to itself. In still other embodiments, thelever portion of the ball mark repair device may be formed to define aring or partial ring that is structured to slideably receive the golfclub grip as it is positioned to seat against the hook and loop surfaceof the first portion of the ball mark repair device.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forthherein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which thisinvention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in theforegoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is tobe understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specificembodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments areintended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a genericand descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

1. A positioning device that is adapted for use with a golf club havinga golf grip that defines a golf grip hole, the positioning devicecomprising: a cradle portion defining an arcuate body that is adapted toremovably receive at least a portion of a golf ball; an interfaceportion extending from the arcuate body, wherein the interface portionis sized to be slidably received within the golf grip hole; and a hookportion extending from the arcuate body, wherein the hook portion issized to slideably receive at least a portion of a golf tee.
 2. Thepositioning device of claim 1, wherein the arcuate body of the cradleportion defines a first end and a second end, and wherein the interfaceportion extends from the arcuate body proximate the first end and thehook portion extends from the arcuate body proximate the second end. 3.The positioning device of claim 1, wherein the interface portion definesa tapered shape and is sized to produce an interference fit whenreceived in the golf grip hole.
 4. The positioning device of claim 1,wherein the hook portion defines a hook radius that is sized to receivethe golf tee below a widest part thereof.
 5. The positioning device ofclaim 1, wherein the arcuate body of the cradle portion defines a radiusbetween 0.55 and 0.84 inches.
 6. The positioning device of claim 1,wherein the arcuate body of the cradle portion is structured to surroundbetween 55 and 90 percent of the golf ball circumference.
 7. Thepositioning device of claim 1, wherein the interface portion defines abarbed portion that is sized to produce an interference fit whenreceived in the golf grip hole.
 8. The positioning device of claim 1,wherein the positioning device is at least partially comprised of aformed metal wire.
 9. The positioning device of claim 1, wherein thehook portion is structured manipulate a golf ball marker.
 10. Thepositioning device of claim 9, wherein the golf ball marker defines anaperture for receiving at least part of the hook portion of thepositioning device.
 11. The positioning device of claim 1, wherein atleast a portion of the positioning device is magnetized and wherein thepositioning device is therefor adapted to manipulate an at leastpartially metallic golf ball marker.
 12. A positioning device that isadapted for removable coupling to a golf club proximate a golf grip, thepositioning device comprising: a cradle portion defining an arcuate bodythat is adapted to removably receive at least a portion of a golf ball;an interface portion extending from the arcuate body, wherein theinterface portion is adapted to removably couple the positioning deviceto the golf club proximate the golf grip; and a hook portion extendingfrom the arcuate body, wherein the hook portion is sized to slidablyreceive at least a portion of a golf tee.
 13. The positioning device ofclaim 12, wherein the arcuate body of the cradle portion defines a firstend and a second end, and wherein the interface portion extends from thearcuate body proximate the first end and the hook portion extends fromthe arcuate body proximate the second end.
 14. The positioning device ofclaim 12, wherein the hook portion defines a hook radius that is sizedto receive the golf tee below a widest part thereof.
 15. The positioningdevice of claim 12, wherein the arcuate body of the cradle portiondefines a radius between 0.55 and 0.84 inches.
 16. The positioningdevice of claim 12, wherein the arcuate body of the cradle portion isstructured to surround between 55 and 90 percent of the golf ballcircumference.
 17. The positioning device of claim 12, wherein thepositioning device is at least partially comprised of a formed metalwire.
 18. The positioning device of claim 12, wherein the hook portionis structured to manipulate a golf ball marker.
 19. The positioningdevice of claim 18, wherein the golf ball marker defines an aperture forreceiving at least part of the hook portion of the positioning device.20. A golf accessory system that is adapted for use with a golf clubhaving a golf grip that defines a golf grip hole, the golf accessorysystem comprising: a positioning device comprising: a cradle portiondefining an arcuate cradle body that is adapted to removably receive atleast a portion of a golf ball, a cradle interface portion extendingfrom the arcuate cradle body, wherein the cradle interface portion issized to be slidably received within the golf grip hole, and a hookportion extending from the arcuate cradle body, wherein the hook portionis sized to slideably receive at least a portion of a golf tee; and aretrieval and teeing device that is configurable between a retrievalmode and a teeing mode, the retrieval and teeing device comprising: aretrieval portion defining an arcuate retrieval body that is adapted toremovably receive at least a portion of the golf ball in the retrievalmode, a second interface portion extending from the arcuate retrievalbody, wherein the second interface portion is sized to be slidablyreceived within the golf grip hole in the retrieval mode, and a teeingportion defining a teeing surface that is adapted to support the golfball in a teed position and further defining a cavity that is sized toslidably receive the second interface portion in the teeing mode. 21.The golf accessory system of claim 20, further comprising: a turf repairtool defining a body portion and a finger portion, wherein at least apart of the body portion is sized to be slidably received into the golfgrip hole of the golf grip and wherein the finger portion is structuredto penetrate a portion of turf.
 22. The positioning device of claim 12,wherein the interface portion is sized to be slidably received within agolf grip hole defined by the golf grip.
 23. The positioning device ofclaim 22, wherein the interface portion defines a tapered shape and issized to produce an interference fit when received in the golf griphole.
 24. The positioning device of claim 22, wherein the interfaceportion defines a barbed portion that is sized to produce aninterference fit when received in the golf grip hole.
 25. Thepositioning device of claim 12, wherein at least a portion of thepositioning device is magnetized and wherein the positioning device istherefore adapted to manipulate an at least partially metallic golf ballmarker.